Scripture References:
st. = Ps. 150:1

As indicated at 635 and 636, the practice of adding a Gloria Patri doxology to Old Testament psalms and New Testament canticles is an ancient tradition in the Christian church. After the Reformation, many Protestant groups kept up that practice; for example, Puritan psalters included various metrical versions of the Gloria Patri for use with the singing of the psalms in meter. This text (and 638) is the most famous of such metrical doxologies. It was written by Thomas Ken (PHH 441), possibly as early as 1674, for the conclusion of each of his "Three Hymns for Morning, Evening, and Midnight." The three hymns were published in the 1695 edition of Ken's A Manual of Prayers (for use at Winchester College) and revised in the 1709 edition. Eventually, this doxology began to be used independently of Ken's hymn texts.

The text calls forth praise to God from the whole universe, from creatures on earth and from saints and angels in heaven. Concluding with praise for the Trinity, this doxology is likely the most well-known expression of the doctrine of the Trinity in hymn form.

Liturgical Use:
As a hymn of praise at the beginning of worship or doxology at the conclusion of worship; for many other occasions of special thanksgiving.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook

NEW DOXOLOGY is a musical setting from the oral traditions of the African American community. The first phrase of this tune is identical to DUKE STREET (412), and that may cause confusion in some congregations. The harmonization is unmistakably African American gospel style, however, and should be accompanied by piano and other instruments including drums (if played on the organ, this tune could be simplified by omitting some of the triplets, especially on the "Amen" line). Sing in unison; keep a majestic pace in the style of African American slow-meter hymns.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook